U.S. patent application number 12/100499 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-11 for flexible fence assembly.
Invention is credited to Edward L. Dombroski.
Application Number | 20080217598 12/100499 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39740729 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080217598 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dombroski; Edward L. |
September 11, 2008 |
FLEXIBLE FENCE ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A fence assembly is made up of a plurality of fence sections.
Each section is made up of panels with top, bottom and side edges
and front and rear surfaces. Slots are spaced from and milled into
the panels along one of the sets of edges. A pair of trim extends
over and covers the set edges and each trim has projections that
snap or slide into the front and rear slots. Alternatively the
edges of the panel may be beaded and slid over the slotted side of
the trim. The fence sections are coupled pivotably to fence posts
such that the panels may pivot, under force of wind, about either
their top or bottom end. The panels are restored to generally
vertical position by the force of gravity. A counterweight within
the fence post linked to the panels can be used to restore panels
to their vertical position. In an alternate embodiment, the
brackets coupling the panels to the fence posts may slide along the
fence posts and the panels bow in response to high winds. The fence
panels may include resilient strips along their vertical edges.
Inventors: |
Dombroski; Edward L.;
(Poughkeepsie, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HESLIN ROTHENBERG FARLEY & MESITI PC
5 COLUMBIA CIRCLE
ALBANY
NY
12203
US
|
Family ID: |
39740729 |
Appl. No.: |
12/100499 |
Filed: |
April 10, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11809065 |
Jun 1, 2007 |
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12100499 |
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11143895 |
Jun 2, 2005 |
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11809065 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
256/24 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10S 256/02 20130101;
E04H 17/16 20130101; E04H 17/1448 20210101 |
Class at
Publication: |
256/24 |
International
Class: |
E04H 17/16 20060101
E04H017/16 |
Claims
1. A fence assembly having fence panels that may pivot under the
force of wind, thus allowing wind flow through the fence,
comprising: a plurality of horizontal fence panels, each having an
upper end and a lower end; a trim piece having an upper channel
therethrough and a lower body portion secured to and extending over
and covering the upper end of each panel; the lower end of a panel
overlapping the trim piece on an adjacent panel; at least a
vertical fence post; pivot pins extending from the fence post and
into the trim piece channels, permitting a panel to pivot about its
upper end in response to wind; and, gravity means for restoring the
panel to its vertical position.
2. The assembly of claim 1 including a stiffening member extending
through the upper open channel of the trim pieces.
3. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the panels are of varying
width.
4. The assembly of claim 1 including a washer on the pivot pins
sandwiched between the fence post and the trim pieces.
5. The assembly of claim 1 including riveting between adjacent
panels to prevent lateral movement.
6. A fence assembly having fence panels that may pivot under the
force of wind, thus allowing wind flow through the fence,
comprising: at least a fence panel generally in vertical position
and having an upper end and a lower end; at least a vertical fence
post; means coupling the panel to the posts; means allowing the
panel to pivot about at least one end of the panel in response to
wind; and, gravity means for restoring the panel to its vertical
position.
7. The fence assembly of claim 6 wherein the fence is pivotable
about its lower end.
8. The fence assembly of claim 6 wherein the gravity means is a
counterweight linked to the panel and suspended within the fence
post.
9. The fence assembly of claim 6 wherein the fence is pivotable
about its upper end.
10. The fence assembly of claim 6 including means for locking the
panels in position.
11. A fence assembly having fence panels that may bow under the
force of wind, thus allowing wind flow over or under the fence
assembly, comprising: at least a flexible fence panel generally in
vertical position and having edges and an upper end and a lower
end; vertical fence posts; brackets coupling the upper end and the
lower end of the panel along its edges to the post; and, means
allowing the brackets to slide along the fence post at least one
end of the panel in response to wind.
12. The fence assembly of claim 11 wherein the lower end bracket is
slidable along the fence post.
13. The fence assembly of claim 11 wherein the upper end bracket is
slidable along the fence post.
14. The fence assembly of claim 11 wherein the fence panel includes
resilient strips along its edges.
15. The fence assembly of claim 11 including gravity means for
restoring the panel to its vertical position.
18. The fence assembly of claim 16 wherein the gravity means is a
counterweight linked to the panel and suspended within a fence
post.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of my
co-pending patent application Ser. No. 11/809,065, entitled
Flexible fence Assembly, filed Jun. 1, 2007, which is, in turn, a
continuation-in-part of my application Ser. No. 11/143,895,
entitled "Flexible Fence Assembly" filed Jun. 2, 2005, now
abandoned. These previous applications are incorporated herein by
this reference and the benefit of the filing dates of these
applications are claimed herein as well.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to fencing such as the type that
might be used in suburbs for enclosing one's property and, in
particular, to a type of fence assembly that will allow for wind
passage therethrough without sacrificing privacy.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] Especially in areas where strong winds frequently occur,
fence rigidity is required. Otherwise in a strong wind the fence
will not be able to withstand the force of the wind and be knocked
over. Even where the fences are rigid, a very strong wind can cause
damage to the fence and as the fence ages even less force is
required to damage the fence and blow it over.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Accordingly, an object of the invention is a fence that will
allow passage of wind therethrough without sacrifice of
privacy.
[0007] Another object is such a fence that is lightweight and
extremely flexible in terms of dimensions and color selection.
[0008] Still another object is such a fence that is easy to
install, remove, replace and store. A further object of the
invention is to enable a `snap-together` assembly for a
manufacturing cost reduction.
[0009] A still further object is to enable greater post spacing
through the use of longer, corrugated fence panels or
equivalent.
[0010] These and other objects, features and advantages are
accomplished in accordance with the teachings of the present
invention, one illustrative embodiment of which comprises a fence
assembly made up of a plurality of fence sections. Each section is
made up of panels with top, bottom and side edges and front and
rear surfaces. Slots are spaced from and milled into the panels
along one of the sets of edges. A pair of trim extends over and
covers the set edges and each trim has projections that snap or
slide into the front and rear slots. Alternatively the edges of the
panel may be beaded and slid over the slotted side of the trim. The
fence sections are coupled pivotably to fence posts such that the
panels may pivot, under force of wind, about either their top or
bottom end. The panels are restored to generally vertical position
by the force of gravity. A counterweight within the fence post
linked to the panels can be used to restore panels to their
vertical position.
[0011] In an alternate embodiment, the brackets coupling the panels
to the fence posts may slide along the fence posts and the panels
bow in response to high winds. The fence panels may include
resilient strips along their vertical edges.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0012] Other objects, features and advantages of the present
invention will be apparent from the following detailed description
and accompany drawing, wherein:
[0013] FIG. 1A is a front elevation of a portion of a fence
assembly, constructed in accordance with the teachings of the
present invention, including a gate;
[0014] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the backside of a portion
of an alternate fence assembly, showing the effects of wind action
on the assembly's panels and where the panels pivot about their top
length;
[0015] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the backside of another
alternate embodiment, showing the effects of wind action on the
fence assembly's panels where the panels pivot about their bottom
length;
[0016] FIG. 2A is a fragmentary, perspective view of a main body or
panel made up of standard house-siding or a single sheet
equivalent, with mill cuts or notches across the top and bottom of
each siding piece or sheet;
[0017] FIG. 2b is a fragmentary, perspective view of a trim piece
with an insertable cover for the pivot pins entrance slot;
[0018] FIG. 2C is a side sectional, fragmentary view, showing a top
trim and a bottom trim snapped onto a piece of siding;
[0019] FIG. 3A is a fragmentary, side view of a portion of a main
body or panel made up of siding, to which has been added a vertical
trim for support for a hinge;
[0020] FIG. 3B is a top view of FIG. 3A;
[0021] FIG. 3C is a fragmentary side view of the post in FIG. 1A in
which pins are located for the gate's pivot;
[0022] FIG. 3D is a top view of FIG. 3C;
[0023] FIG. 3E is a top, fragmentary view showing the latch
assembly of the FIG. 1A embodiment secured on the pin embedded in
the vertical post;
[0024] FIGS. 3F and 3G are fragmentary perspective views showing
the positioning and relationship of the post, pin, latch, vertical
trim piece and siding;
[0025] FIG. 4 is a fragmentary, side view of a portion of the FIG.
1C embodiment showing the makeup of the counterweight assembly when
the pivoting action is along the bottom length of the fence
assembly;
[0026] FIG. 5A is a fragmentary, perspective view of the FIG. 1C
embodiment where pivoting is about the bottom length and showing
the effect of the wind's force on the fence assembly panels;
[0027] FIG. 5B is a fragmentary, perspective view of the base of
the FIG. 1B embodiment and when locking the fence assembly in
closed position;
[0028] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of one of the panels in the
FIG. 1A or 1B embodiments where the pivoting is about the top
length showing the effect of the wind's force on the panel and
further showing the fence assembly post embedded in concrete;
[0029] FIG. 5D is a perspective view of a pin with casting used
when irregular terrain requires a pivot height change and/or for
cornering;
[0030] FIG. 6A is a perspective of a snap-on tool used toward the
bottom of adjacent posts for post placement;
[0031] FIG. 6B is a perspective of a pole-spacing tool used
simultaneously with the tool depicted in FIG. 6A, but at the tops
of the posts;
[0032] FIG. 7A is a fragmentary, perspective view showing the use
of the main body or panel as a window shutter;
[0033] FIG. 7B is a fragmentary, perspective view showing the use
of the main body or panel as a low barrier like a hedge;
[0034] FIG. 8A is a fragmentary, exploded view of an alternate
embodiment for supporting the main bodies or panels on the
posts;
[0035] FIG. 8B is a fragmentary, perspective view of an alternate
embodiment of the trim used when no pivoting action of the panel is
contemplated;
[0036] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the trim showing the
pin entrance at the bottom when pivoting action is at the bottom
length of the panel;
[0037] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the trim showing the
pin entrance at the top when pivoting action is at the top length
of the panel;
[0038] FIG. 10A is a fragmentary view showing corrugated panels
with milled slots;
[0039] FIG. 10B is a sectional view of a side trim adjacent to a
fence post;
[0040] FIG. 10C is a top view of the end of a corrugated panel;
[0041] FIG. 10D is a perspective view of a locking bracket for
capturing the side trims on both sides of the fence post of FIG.
10B when wind-through pivoting is not wanted;
[0042] FIG. 10E is a nut for placement on the top of the fence post
of FIG. 10B;
[0043] FIG. 10F is a fragmentary side view of the fence post of
FIG. 10B sandwiched between the trims of two adjacent corrugated
panels;
[0044] FIG. 11A is a fragmentary side view of an alternate
embodiment of the present invention showing the fence post, upper
pivot attachment and lower trim lock;
[0045] FIG. 11B is a fragmentary perspective view of the upper trim
and panel for attachment to the fence post attachment depicted in
FIG. 11A;
[0046] FIG. 11C is a fragmentary side view of the upper and lower
trim and panel of FIG. 11B;
[0047] FIG. 12 is a fragmentary, perspective view of a panel beaded
at its upper end;
[0048] FIG. 13 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an upper
beaded panel with trim piece,
[0049] FIG. 14 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an upper
beaded panel with trim piece and added decorative portion;
[0050] FIG. 15 is a fragmentary, perspective view, partially
exploded, of an alternate embodiment of the present invention in
which brackets attaching the panel to the vertical post are allowed
to slide along the fence post;
[0051] FIG. 16 is a fragmentary, perspective, exploded view of the
bracket pane post assembly at the lower end of the fence
assembly;
[0052] FIG. 17 is a fragmentary, perspective view of a further
alternate embodiment;
[0053] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an alternate upper sliding
sleeve;
[0054] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an alternate lower locking
collar;
[0055] FIG. 20 is a fragmentary perspective view showing at least
one of the fence assembly panels bearing indicia;
[0056] FIGS. 21 and 22 are fragmentary side views of panels in
which a pattern has been cut;
[0057] FIG. 23 is a fragmentary perspective view of a preferred,
alternate embodiment of the present invention;
[0058] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the upper trim piece
used in the FIG. 23 embodiment;
[0059] FIG. 25 is a fragmentary perspective view of the posts
utilized in the FIG. 23 embodiment, with pivot rod press fit
therethrough;
[0060] FIG. 26 is a fragmentary perspective view of another,
preferred, alternate embodiment of the present invention;
[0061] FIG. 27 is a perspective view, partially in phantom of a
steel casting;
[0062] FIG. 28 is a fragmentary perspective view, partially in
phantom of a steel bar (rebar) with shrink tubing;
[0063] FIG. 29 is a side view, partially in phantom, of a
protective installation tube;
[0064] FIG. 30 is a view, of a steel installation tool;
[0065] FIG. 31 is a perspective view, partially in phantom, of the
tool of FIG. 30 being used to install a steel bar;
[0066] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a sensing doughnut for
proper vertical positioning of the steel bar;
[0067] FIG. 33 is a schematic, side view, partially in phantom of
flanged sleeves to accommodate bars of varying diameters; and,
[0068] FIG. 34 is a side, cutaway view of the doughnut sensor of
FIG. 32.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0069] Referring to FIG. 1A of the drawing, one embodiment of the
novel fence assembly 10A of the present invention is seen as
including vertical posts 11, a plurality of main bodies or panels
12, and top 13 and bottom 14 trim. In this embodiment the left-most
and right-most panels 12 are secured to the vertical posts 11 (in a
manner to be explained hereafter) so as to pivot about the top,
while the middle panel is hinged at 15 and provided with a latch 16
so as to function as a gate within the fence assembly 10A. The
posts 11 can be of any cross-section, e.g. round, square,
rectangular, etc. and can be made of wood, steel, plastic, etc., so
long as they are rigid.
[0070] Each panel 12 may be a complete sheet or, as illustrated, a
plurality of joined-together sheets as, for example, like multiple
sheets of vinyl house siding, and made in different lengths, widths
and color, depending on the site and application.
[0071] Each panel 12 is provided with an extruded, upper 13 and
lower 14 trim that extends over and covers the top and bottom edges
of the panels 12. The trims are affixed to the panel, either by
screwing or, when spring is provided to the trim, by snapping or
sliding the trims onto the edges of the panel as will be explained
hereafter. The trims 13,14 are of a flexible plastic material. In
areas where strong winds frequently occur, the need for fence
rigidity is required. The trims 13,14 provide rigidity as well to
the panel. The trim is made of ABS, vinyl or equivalent.
Optionally, the bottom trim 14 can be omitted. The top trim 13 is
also used in securing the panel 12 to the posts 11, but in a manner
to allow, with the bottom part of the panel 12 unsecured, the panel
to pivot about its top length.
[0072] With the panels 12 thus mounted, the fence assembly allows
the left and right panels 12 to pivot under a wind's force and thus
allow wind flow through the fence assembly 10A. When the wind
subsides, gravitational forces, in this instance the weight of the
panels 12, return the panels 12 to their normally vertical
position.
[0073] The embodiment 10B depicted in FIG. 1B is similar to the
embodiment in FIG. 1A, but without a gate so that all panels 12
pivot about their top length. The figure depicts a possible
position of the panels 12 due to the effects of a wind's force.
[0074] The embodiment 10C differs from the FIGS. 1A and 1B
embodiments in that in this embodiment the fence assembly 10C is
constructed, in a manner to be explained hereafter, so that the
panels 12 pivot about their bottom length. The panels 12 are shown
in a possible position due to the effects of a wind's force. When
the wind subsides counterweights (not shown in FIG. 1C), suspended
within the poles 11 and tied to the top of the panels 12 will
return the panels to their normal vertical position.
[0075] Each main body or panel 12 may be a complete sheet or, as
illustrated in FIG. 2A, a plurality of snapped-together sheets 21
of vinyl house siding, typically of 3/64 inch thickness.
[0076] The sheets are mill-cut or notched, typically 1/8 inch deep
along the top at 22 and bottom at 23, in both the front and back to
form little lips for a snap-on assembly of the upper trim 13 and
lower trim 14 rather than necessitating the use of screws to secure
the trim to the siding.
[0077] To be explained hereafter pivot pins 55 (See FIG. 5C) are
press-fit into the vertical posts 11 and then inserted within
openings in the trim (93 in FIG. 9B). A removable cover 24 may be
press-fit into a slot 25 within lower trim 14. The cover 24 is
primarily for aesthetic purposes, but also prevents accidental
panel/post dis-connect. In the FIG. 5C embodiment, the opposite
post has been omitted from the view. It should be understood that
only the backside of the top and bottom trim has the openings for
the pivoting pins.
[0078] Also, where house siding is used to form a fence panel, each
slotted edge normally used for house attachment must be trimmed for
aesthetic value.
[0079] In the FIG. 1A embodiment, the middle panel functions as a
gate. With the middle panel made up of pieces of siding 21, the
adjacent siding alone would be inadequate to support a hinge and
latch assembly. In this instance and referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B and
3E, both the right and left edges of the gate panel 12 (in this
instance made up of siding 21) are provided with a more substantial
vertical trim piece 31 on the order of 1/8 inch thickness that runs
the entire length of the siding 21. Hinges 15 are secured to the
vertical trim piece 31 by means of rivets or screws 32 that pass
through the siding 21. Adjusting screws 17 (FIG. 1A) may be
included in the event a skewed condition develops between posts 11
and panel 12.
[0080] FIGS. 3C and 3D disclose the post 11 in which two L-shaped
pins 34 are embedded and on which the gate can pivot.
[0081] FIG. 3E is a top view showing the latch 16 secured on the
pole, while FIGS. 3F and 3G show the positioning and relationship
of the post 11, its pin 33, latch 16, vertical trim piece 31 and
siding 21.
[0082] Referring now to FIGS. 1C, 4 and 5A, in this embodiment the
fence assembly 10C is constructed so that the panels 12 pivot about
their bottom length. In FIG. 4, counterweights 41 are shown
suspended within the poles 11 and tied by means of cord 42, as of
braided nylon, that passes through a molded pole cap 43 to pins 44
affixed to the upper trim 13 of adjacent panels 12. Pivot pins 45
are inserted within openings in the trim (94 in FIG. 9A) and into
the vertical posts 11. In the FIG. 1C embodiment, the fence
assembly 10C is shown in a possible position due to the effects of
a wind's force. When the wind subsides the counterweights 41 will
return the panels 12 to their normal vertical position.
[0083] There may be times when you wish to confine a child or pet
within a fenced area, or when moderate winds are expected and no
wind passage through the fence assembly is needed. In those
instances, and referring to FIG. 5B, the fence post 11 is provided
with a threaded rivet 51 near ground level. A locking bar 52 is
centered in and between two adjacent bottom-trim members 14. To
lock the fence assembly in closed position, a screw 53 is threaded
through the locking bar 52 and fastened to the threaded rivet 51 in
the fence post 11. Alternatively, instead of screwing through the
locking bar 52 to the post 11, a semi-circular clamp 54, is
fastened by means of the locking screw 53 to the threaded rivet 51
in the fence post 11. The locking bar 52 is eliminated.
[0084] FIG. 5C discloses a fence post 11 that is embedded in the
ground G or concrete, as the case may be. A single panel 12 that
pivots about its top length is illustrated. A pin 55 inserted into
the post 11 and within the trim 13 supports the panel 12.
[0085] Referring to FIG. 5D, where there is irregular terrain
height or the fence assembly reaches a corner, accommodation for
same is accomplished by the use of the variable height pivot pin
55A that includes a metallic casting 55B with two pilot holes for
pop rivets and the pin 55C.
[0086] To assure consistent, precise pole spacing during
installation to very close tolerances, typically six feet, and
referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, after a first post 11 has been
installed in a vertical position, a bottom locating tool 61 is
snapped on to the first installed post 11 at ground level and the
next post 11 is snapped on to the opposite end of tool 61. Tool 61
has a circular opening 62 at each end with a slot 63 extending
therefrom so that it can be opened and closed and snapped onto the
posts 11.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 6B, second top locating tool 64 such as a
trim piece with notches 65 is then slid on to the first and next
posts 11 on the top ends of the posts 11, thereby maintaining
proper spacing at the top ends of the posts 11 as well. The top
tool 64 is so constructed that a level 66 may be positioned therein
to control the height of the posts 11 as well. With the poles 11 so
positioned, cement, gravel, soil or equivalent is packed solidly at
the base of the poles 11. After curing of the cement, the tools 61
and 64 are removed.
[0088] Thus far the main bodies or panels 12 have been shown in
connection with a fence assembly. Alternatively, the panels could
be used as shutters (71 in FIG. 7A) or as a low barrier like a
hedge (72 in FIG. 7B) anchored with ground stakes 73.
[0089] Referring to FIG. 8A, instead of the short pins 55
illustrated in FIG. 5C for support and pivoting of the panels, a
single bar 81 passes entirely through the trim 13. Bar 81 is
grooved at 82 and fits within a slot 83 at the top of the vertical
post 11. Where pivoting is about the bottom, a similar bar may be
used.
[0090] If one resides in a location where wind velocity is minimal
and thus no pivoting action of the fence panels is needed and
contemplated, then, referring to FIG. 8B, the trim 91 is provided
with a hooked end piece 92 that can be set down in a slot in the
vertical post such as the slot shown at 83 in FIG. 8A.
[0091] A further alternate embodiment of the fence assembly of the
present invention is shown in FIGS. 10A through 10F. Instead of
using fence panels that may be of vinyl siding such as shown and
described earlier, the fence assembly includes a corrugated or
accordion-shaped panel 101. It can give the panel extra thickness
and added stiffness than say the panels made up of house siding.
This allows one to have much longer panels and wider spacing
between fence posts. The panel 101 can be of metal say aluminum,
plastic and the like. Added thickness provides more resistance
against the wind bending it.
[0092] FIG. 10B is a top view of a fence post 102 and trim 103 that
fits onto the end of the corrugated panel 101. Trim 103 is provided
with projections 104 for snapping into milled slots or notches 105,
although the ends could be squared off FIG. 10C is a side view of a
panel 101 showing the notches 105. The trim 103 can be slid or
snapped into the slots 105.
[0093] In many situations a person may not be concerned with the
panel movement caused by the wind forces, in which case a lock 106,
as shown in FIG. 10D, can be fitted over the ends of adjacent
panels and against the fence post and affixed to the fence post at
the base of adjacent panels by means of a screw (not shown).
[0094] This embodiment also lends itself to pivoting action of the
panels 101. In FIG. 10E is shown a nut 107 having a lower part 108,
upper flanges 109, 110 and a threaded bore 111 therethrough.
[0095] Referring to FIGS. 10E and 10F, the nut 107 is dropped into
the post 102, with the flanges 109,110 coming to rest on the top of
the post, the bore 111 being positioned transversely of the nut
such that the bore is slightly above the top of the post. A bolt
112 is passed trough trim 103, post 102 on both sides, threaded
through the bore 111 and locked in place and provides the pivot
point for the panels 101.
[0096] FIGS. 11A through 11C disclose an alternate embodiment for
permitting pivoting of the fence panel, for locking the panels in
place and for stiffening the trim.
[0097] Referring first to FIG. 11A, the fence post 121 can be a
steel post and of smaller diameter than the post in previous
embodiments and is provided with extruded holes 122 (one on either
side for each adjacent panel and trim). A pivot member 123 with
outwardly extending feet 124,125 is attached to the post 121 (on
either side) by means of knurled head shoulder screws 126. The
figure also depicts a lower trim lock 127 that is attached to the
lower part of the post 121 by means of screw 128 threaded through
the lock 127 and into the post 121.
[0098] FIGS. 11B and 11C show the fence panel 129 and upper trim
130. The walls of the trim are provided with vertical slots 131
into which the feet 124,125 of the pivot 123 snap. The square,
upper chamber 132 of the upper trim 130 and the square lower
chamber 133 of lower trim 134 trim are provided with tubular
stiffening members or rods 135, 136 of square cross-section. The
stiffening members 135, 136 are slid into the chambers 132 and 133
to prevent possible bowing during very heavy winds.
[0099] Referring now to FIG. 12, one may provide each panel 140
with a bead 141 at the upper end and a trim piece 142, as shown in
FIG. 13, eliminating the need for panel notching. Although the
beading is illustrated at the top end, it is to be understood that
the beading can be placed at the bottom end or both ends, as
desired.
[0100] Further, as shown in FIG. 14, the upper trim 142A can have
an upper open chamber into which a decorative portion 143 may be
positioned, for aesthetic reasons.
[0101] The embodiments described thus far require clearance on both
sides of the fence for wind passage. In accordance with a further,
preferred embodiment of the invention, the center section of each
fence panel is allowed to bow for wind passage over or under the
fence assembly. As shown in FIG. 15, there is a flexible panel 150
made up of a plurality of joined-together sheets, for example,
vinyl, aluminum and the like with upper 151 and lower trim 152. The
panel is attached to the vertical posts 153 by brackets. In
accordance with the teachings of the present invention, either the
upper brackets or the lower brackets can slide along, but are not
affixed to the posts. In the FIG. 15 embodiment the lower bracket
is fastened to the post 153, while the upper bracket is free to
slide down the post and will bow in response to high wind.
[0102] In FIG. 16, the invention is illustrated where the lower
brackets can slide up and down the vertical posts. The trim pieces
152, slit at 154 for panel insertion are held within the bracket
made up of upper member 155 and lower member 156 with extruded weld
nuts 157 or equivalent. The bracket can slide along, but is not
affixed to the post 153. Each member 155, 156 is provided with a
nylon or Velcro or equivalent insert 158, 159 to aid in the sliding
process.
[0103] In this manner, and in response to high wind, the panel will
bow, allowing wind passage through the fence. The force of the wind
will cause the brackets, either at the upper end, as illustrated in
FIG. 16, or, as illustrated with the bracket arrangement in FIG.
16, at the lower end, or both ends to slide down or up, or in both
directions, respectively, and thereby allow wind passage through
the fence assembly.
[0104] Where the lower trim is fixed to the post, a counterweight
system such as that shown in FIG. 4 may be employed with the cable
160 attached to both adjacent panels 150. But a counterweight
system is not required, when the resilient strips bridge the
panels.
[0105] This sliding bracket embodiment enables an appreciable
increase in the spacing between fence posts. The post's rigidity is
assured due to minimized wind resistance.
[0106] The fence assembly designs of the present invention permit
thinner flexible materials that can simplify manufacture and
provide other advantages such as lightweight and quick
interchangeable and removable fence sections and allows for easy
storage.
[0107] FIG. 17 illustrates a further embodiment of the sliding
arrangement of the present invention. The ends of the resilient
panels 170 are provided with resilient strips 171 that are riveted
to the panels 170 at 172 and attached to the upper 173 and lower
trim 174. The trim pieces are in turn attached to brackets 175, 176
that can slide along the vertical posts 177. The arrangement
assures that panel 170 and strips 171 will bow in the same
direction. Additional strips 171 may be spaced along the panels
170.
[0108] Referring to FIG. 18, there is shown a sliding sleeve
casting 180 (upper or lower) with pivot pins 181,182. The sleeve
180 fits about the vertical post and its pins 181, 182, fit into
the adjacent trim pieces. Pins 181, 182 allows for angular changes
of the fence panel trims. The upper and lower trims will be allowed
to swivel, thus allowing greater responsiveness to light breezes.
The sleeve 180 can be used in connection with the fence assembly
shown in FIGS. 15-17, as well as with the other embodiments shown
in the remaining Figs. and facilitates installation and removal of
panels from a fence assembly.
[0109] Referring to FIG. 19 there is shown an alternate locking
collar 190. The collar 190 is slide around a fence post with its
openings aligned with openings in the fence post. A pin 191 is slid
through the openings in the collar 190 and the openings in the
fence post. The protruding ends of the pin 191 are inserted into
adjacent trim pieces, allowing the swivel action of the lower trim
similar to the FIG. 18 embodiment. The cone head set screw 192
locks it in place.
[0110] If desired, and as shown in FIG. 20, customers can be given
a panel 170 to print desired indicia thereon, or decorative panels
as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, can be provided wherever a customer
desires, as by cutting or displaying a pattern into or on the
panels 170B and 170C.
[0111] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 23-25, a preferred embodiment of
the present invention is disclosed. The fence assembly 201
comprises multiple, flexible, horizontal panels 202, 203 and 204.
Each panel may be made up of joined-together sheets. Optionally,
the panel may be a single piece with a bead along its upper
edge.
[0112] Trim pieces 205, 206 and 207 have an upper portion through
which a steel tube stiffening member 208 (FIG. 24) passes and a
lower portion that snaps onto the upper edges of the panels
202-204. Aluminum pivot pins 209 (FIGS. 23 and 25), 210 and 211,
approximately 1/4-3/8 inch in diameter, are press fit through
adjacent, PVC, vertical posts 212. The near ends of pins 209-211
pass into the trim stiffening member 208. Optionally, a pin insert
cover (not shown) may be added at the end of the trim piece, for
aesthetic reasons.
[0113] With the panels thus mounted, the fence assembly is allowed
to pivot under a wind's force.
[0114] The lower trim pieces 206, 207 have a controlled
interference with the bottom edges of the panels 202, 203 above.
The interference improves privacy while allowing the panels to flip
over when the wind reverses direction. Also, this assembly
facilitates cutting grass adjacent to and under the lowest
panel.
[0115] Velcro tape could also be applied where the panel and trim
pieces interfere. This would insure a forceful wind requirement for
the `wind thru` fence assembly to function.
[0116] To enhance the aesthetics of the fence assembly, the widths
of the individual horizontal panels may be varied, as shown in FIG.
26. Thus, and by way of example, one can have panels 221 of four
inch width and other panels 222 of 8 inch width.
[0117] Optionally, a nylon washer at 223 may be sandwiched on the
pivot pins between the fence post and the panel trim to prevent a
noise from the post rubbing against the trim.
[0118] After a period of time, the panels may move back and forth
and slide towards the post. To prevent this, and as shown in FIG.
26, rivets 224 are placed through adjacent panels to prevent
lateral movement.
[0119] When the terrain beneath a fence assembly installation
changes, the fence post may be lengthened as shown at 225 in FIG.
26 and additional panels may be added as shown at 226, 227 in FIG.
26.
[0120] The fence assembly of the present invention offers
negligible wind resistance. It enables increased fence post
spacing. The addition of en extra trimmed length enables
fence/ground contact without destroying alignment. It permits fast
and easy interchange of fence panels and a wider array of color
choices. If desired, a user can have panels customized to a
particular decorative design. Costs of materials, manufacture,
storage, transportation and installation are greatly reduced.
[0121] The present "in ground" support of fence posts usually
requires an oversized hole with a need for cement before or after
the fence post has been positioned. In the past, a steel support
below grade has not been utilized because of the problem with post
deterioration due to rusting.
[0122] To overcome this, and referring to FIGS. 27 and 28 there is
shown a steel casting 301 to be slid on the bottom of a steel bar
(rebar) 302. Typically, bar 302 is 4 feet long and in use half will
be driven into the ground. Optionally, a powder coat may be painted
over the entire surface of bar 302. A shrink tubing 303 is disposed
over the entire length of the bar 302.
[0123] FIG. 29 discloses a thin wall, protective tube 304,
typically 2 feet long with an internal cap at its upper end. The
tube 304 will be used when penetrating the ground with the bar 302
to protect the shrink tubing 303 during installation.
[0124] FIG. 30 discloses a bar installation tool 310 comprising
vertical tubing 311, horizontal tubing 312 affixed to tubing 311
and horizontal bar 313 positioned above and spaced from tubing
312.
[0125] In use, and as shown in FIG. 31, to drive bar 302 with its
leading casting 301 into the ground, the casting 301 is pressed
against the ground with bar 302 in vertical position. Weights 314
are slid on the vertical tubing 311, and rest on the bar 313. The
installer then places the tubing 311 over the bar 302 with the thin
wall tube 304 positioned between the bar 302 and tubing 311 to
protect the shrink tubing 303. The installer then raises and lowers
the tool 310, thereby driving the bar 302 into the ground,
typically to a depth of 2 feet, leaving 2 feet exposed.
[0126] Thereafter, a post from a fence assembly may be slipped onto
the bar 302, the top of the bar 302 coming to rest against the
lowermost pin in the fence assembly.
[0127] To assure perfect vertical alignment of the bar 302 during
installation, and referring to FIG. 32, a sensing doughnut 321 is
placed about the bar 302. A plurality of flanged sleeves 322 of
varying diameters, as shown in FIG. 33, that can be nested, may be
placed within the doughnut hole to accommodate bars of varying
diameters.
[0128] The sensing doughnut is seen, in FIG. 34 as being hollow,
with a slightly curved, transparent cover 323, and an air bubble
324 in the doughnut's internal fluid 325. The fence assembly of the
present invention is light in construction and can be built at
small cost. The top and bottom trims are identical until the
pivoting pin slots are added. Both are made as an extrusion with
any desired length. When subjected to wind pressure, the fence
panels will bow, relieving the fence assembly of the force of the
wind and ensuing damage. Forceful winds passage can occur without
the need for large openings and extra cost of heavier
construction.
[0129] The assembly is virtually maintenance-free.
[0130] There is extreme design flexibility that enables custom made
fences with a choice of height, width and color.
[0131] The fence assembly of the present invention minimizes
assembly time and manpower
[0132] requirements because each fence unit has only three `snap or
slide together` components.
[0133] The assembly enables a maximum `wind thru` area without
fence panel removal.
[0134] The assembly uses gravity for automatic fence repositioning
after any degree of wind passage.
[0135] Each panel is independently removable. Except in one
embodiment involving a cone head set screw, no tools are required
for installation or removal of panels and there is a `lock-down`
ability, when preferred.
[0136] When excessive fence lengths are desired with greater fence
post spacing, presently marketed corrugated panels used for roofing
can be used instead of house siding. The same `snap-together`
assembly method can be used or a `slide` attachment of the panel
and its trim. Only a wider trim is required with its attachment on
each side, and the fence sheets vertically positioned.
[0137] It should be obvious that changes, additions and omissions
may be made in the details and arrangement of parts without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter
claimed.
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